Damascus, Syria – December 8, 2025: Hundreds of thousands of Syrians took to the streets on Monday to mark the first anniversary of Bashar al-Assad’s ousting, celebrating the historic end of more than 50 years of Assad family rule. The festivities, including military parades, rallies, and patriotic events, were held nationwide, with President Ahmad al-Sharaa addressing the nation during the official Victory Day celebrations at the Damascus Conference Palace.

President Sharaa Outlines Priorities

In his Victory Day speech, President Sharaa emphasized the need for national unity and post-conflict stability, announcing the merger of all military divisions into a single unified army to consolidate security. He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to transitional justice, promising accountability for “everyone who committed violations” during Syria’s years of turmoil.

Sharaa condemned the former Assad regime for creating “an entity based on lawlessness, spreading corruption, and depriving citizens of their rights,” and dedicated the anniversary to “the heroes who gave their lives to liberate the country” as well as to families who endured losses during the conflict.

Celebrations Across Syria

While Damascus’ Umayyad Square served as the main hub for public celebrations, Syrians across the country observed the anniversary with rallies, music, flags, and parades. Columns of brigades advanced with armored vehicles, tanks, and missile launchers—the same equipment used in the operations that ended Assad’s rule.

Thousands gathered from early morning despite cold weather. Participants like Abu Khattab al-Shami described the day as “unlike any other in Syria’s history,” while visitors from Aleppo, such as Mohammad Hussein, expressed pride in seeing their relatives among the fighters.

Security Measures and Regional Observances

Authorities imposed restrictions in the Kurdish-administered north and east of Syria, banning public gatherings and the firing of live ammunition or fireworks due to security concerns, including potential threats from terrorist cells. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) hailed the fall of the Assad regime as a “historic opportunity” to rebuild Syria on democratic foundations while cautioning against the return of authoritarian practices.

A Year of Transformation

One year after Assad’s fall, Sharaa, a former al-Qaeda fighter turned national leader, has overseen major developments in Syria. His forces executed a rapid advance to capture Damascus, ending decades of Assad family dominance. Bashar al-Assad and his family have been granted asylum in Russia.

Since the regime change, over 3 million displaced Syrians have returned home, according to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Filippo Grandi, UNHCR High Commissioner, called the anniversary “a once-in-a-generation chance to help end one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises” but warned that continued international support is critical to sustaining the momentum for peace and reconstruction.

Looking Ahead

President Sharaa’s administration continues to face major challenges, including rebuilding infrastructure, ensuring security, safeguarding minority rights, and maintaining national unity. His government’s success in implementing transitional justice and facilitating the safe return of displaced citizens will be key indicators of Syria’s progress toward long-term stability.